While fans are still debating the future of Don 3, Farhan Akhtar is quietly preparing for something far bigger — his Hollywood debut.
And not just any debut.
The actor-filmmaker is set to portray Bharat Ratna awardee Ravi Shankar in Sam Mendes’ ambitious The Beatles: A Four-Film Cinematic Event — a project already being described as one of the most expansive music biopics ever attempted.
A Beatles Saga Like Never Before
Backed by Sony Pictures and currently in production in the UK, the four-film series will chronicle the journey of The Beatles — but with a twist.
Each installment will tell the story from the perspective of a different band member:
John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.
The global theatrical release is locked for April 2028, making this a long-term cinematic event rather than a one-film tribute.
Farhan’s inclusion as Ravi Shankar adds an essential emotional and cultural dimension. Shankar’s profound musical bond with George Harrison in the late 1960s wasn’t just artistic — it was spiritual. Harrison’s fascination with Indian classical music and philosophy played a pivotal role in shaping The Beatles’ later sound.
In many ways, this role places Farhan at the heart of one of modern music’s most influential cross-cultural collaborations.
A Power-Packed Cast
The principal cast features Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, and Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr.
The supporting ensemble includes Lucy Boynton as Jane Asher, Morfydd Clark as Cynthia Lennon, Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney, Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono, and James Norton as Brian Epstein.
Sam Mendes will direct all four films under his Neal Street Productions banner, alongside producers Pippa Harris and Julie Pastor.
It’s rare to see a project this scale — and even rarer to see an Indian actor positioned within such a globally iconic narrative.
The Don 3 Backlash
But not everyone is celebrating.
With Don 3 still stuck in development limbo, sections of fans have expressed frustration online. Many took to Reddit questioning Farhan’s priorities, accusing him of delaying the much-awaited franchise revival while taking on acting assignments.
Some users even claimed he has shifted focus entirely away from directing, suggesting he’s more invested in on-screen roles than helming projects.
The criticism reflects just how emotionally invested fans remain in the Don franchise. Ever since its announcement, anticipation has been sky-high — and delays have only intensified the chatter.
A Career-Defining Leap
Regardless of the online noise, this casting marks a significant milestone. Farhan has already built a diverse career — from directing Dil Chahta Hai to starring in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag and appearing in Marvel’s Ms. Marvel series.
But stepping into Ravi Shankar’s shoes in a Beatles epic is a different league altogether.
It’s not just a performance. It’s representation — placing Indian classical music at the center of a Western pop culture phenomenon.
Final Words
The Don 3 debate may rage on, but Farhan Akhtar’s Hollywood move is undeniably historic. Playing Ravi Shankar in a globally mounted Beatles saga isn’t just another acting job — it’s a cultural bridge between East and West.
Whether fans forgive the Don delays or not, one thing is clear: Farhan is entering a new chapter. And it’s playing out on the biggest stage possible.
